Leadership Transition, Ontario 211 Services

The Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Karen Milligan, currently Director of Partnership Development and Strategic Initiative, has been appointed Executive Director of Ontario 211 Services, effective April 1, 2016. Karen will replace Andrew Benson, who has chosen to step down from the role to focus on other professional commitments.

Karen Milligan brings to the role significant experience in the 211 system, first through her work with United Way Ottawa in helping to get 211 service launched in Ottawa, then as an Interim Executive Director for 211 East (Community Information Centre of Ottawa). Over the last three years, Karen worked hand in hand with the Executive Director and 211 stakeholders at Ontario 211 Services and has demonstrated her ability to develop strong relationships, develop and implement Communications strategies, increase 211’s reach as a result of good partnerships, and contribute to 211 Ontario and 211 National strategic priorities.

The Board would like to thank Andrew for his dedication to the role over the last three and a half years. His strong leadership and vision has resulted in significant improvements to infrastructure, relationships with stakeholders, and increases in funding and new partnerships.

Much progress has been made moving the 211 system in Ontario through its transformation from network to integrated provincial system over the last three years. The Board is confident that Karen’s leadership will maintain 211’s momentum and create new opportunities to move our important work forward.